Apply for Services

There are several ways to apply for VESID services. Although our primary offices are located in Downtown Buffalo, VESID counselors provide service in local sites in all eight WNY Counties. In most of our service sites throughout WNY, we offer "FAST TRACK" Group Orientation /Application Sessions. 

During the orientation part of the group sessions we present an overview about working with VESID to remove employment barriers imposed by disabilities. The second part of the group sessions is devoted to completion of the application for VESID services. VESID staff is on hand to provide individual assistance in this process and answer any questions you may have. 

When making an application for VESID services it is important to bring current documentation about your disabling condition such as a doctor's report or medical records or school records. The availability of this information will insure that your application can be processed quickly and that we can begin to determine your eligibility for our services. Once the federal eligibility process is completed your case will be assigned to a vocational rehabilitation counselor who will assist you in developing and completing your employment goals though training and/or other services.

To schedule and appointment for a group Orientation/ Application session in the location nearest you, call our:

Central Number (716) 848-8001 or 
Toll Free at 1-888-652-7062
TTY (716) 848-8105 
Or 
Contact your local Workforce Investment "One Stop" center

What You Can Expect When You Apply for VESID Services

VESID Vocational Rehabilitation Services are based upon eligibility. Eligibility is based upon the specific barriers to employment resulting from your disability. 

Some VESID services are contingent upon financial need which means that one's current financial situation is taken into account.

If you are eligible for VESID services you will be assigned to a vocational rehabilitation counselor who has special training and expertise to assist you toward employment through the rehabilitation process.

Your VESID counselor will assist you in developing a reachable employment goal that is based upon your interests, aptitudes and abilities.

The next step in the process toward employment is to develop a plan to get you to your employment goal. To develop this plan you may work by yourself, with your VESID counselor or with other professionals, advocates of your choosing.

Once your employment plan has been defined, VESID will help you to identify the kinds of training, education or other special services to reach that goal.

When your plan has been completed and you are ready to get a job, VESID can help in providing job leads and direct placement services through a variety of programs and vendors. VESID also provides employers with tax credits and other financial incentives to hire persons with disabilities.

Every year VESID helps thousands of New Yorkers with disabilities to become successfully employed.